Nissan has updated the Fairlady Z for the 2027 model year, with the sports car set to debut at the New York Auto Show next week. The biggest news is that the high-performance Nismo trim will finally be available with a six-speed manual transmission, a feature enthusiasts have long requested.
Refreshed Exterior Design
The 2027 Z maintains its recognizable profile but receives subtle styling updates. A new front bumper adopts smoother curves instead of sharp edges, improving aerodynamics and reducing lift. The grille has also been redesigned with horizontal accents, enhancing airflow. A new “Z” badge replaces the Nissan logo on the nose, and the range-topping Nismo trim gets exclusive 19-inch forged wheels with a machined finish. A new Shinkai Green Pearl Metallic paint option with a Super Black roof pays homage to the original Z model.
Interior Enhancements
Inside, the changes are minor but welcome. The Performance trim now offers tan upholstery, adding a touch of sophistication. All Performance and Nismo models gain a Qi2 wireless charger, supporting magnetic alignment for modern smartphones at up to 15 watts. The digital instrument cluster and 8- or 9-inch infotainment system carry over, along with automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and standard driver assistance systems. A six-speaker audio system is standard, with an upgraded eight-speaker Bose setup available on higher trims.
Performance Upgrades
Beyond the aesthetics, Nissan has made functional improvements. A redesigned fuel tank prevents fuel starvation during high-G cornering, ideal for track use. The Z Performance trim receives larger diameter shock absorbers, improving vibration dampening and handling.
Manual Nismo: The Key Improvement
The 2027 Z Nismo stands out with its new six-speed manual transmission. This gearbox features an upgraded clutch and a shorter shift stroke for quicker, more precise gear changes. The twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine in the Nismo has been retuned for a more aggressive throttle response when paired with the manual. Active Sound Enhancement and Active Noise Cancellation systems have also been tuned to deliver a more exhilarating driving experience.
The Nismo also benefits from new two-piece iron-aluminum front brakes derived from the GT-R, reducing weight by 19 lbs and improving cooling. Suspension and steering rack adjustments further enhance handling, with reduced friction in the steering rack for a more responsive feel. The Nismo produces 420 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, a slight increase over the Sport and Performance trims, which produce 400 hp and 350 lb-ft. All versions now come standard with a six-speed manual, but a nine-speed automatic remains optional.
The 2027 Nissan Z Nismo’s addition of a manual transmission is a significant upgrade for enthusiasts, combined with refined performance and styling tweaks that make this a more compelling sports car than ever before.
